Japan Transit Visa: Eligibility & How to Apply
Guide to Japan Transit Visa for travelers passing through Japan to a third country.
Overview
Important (checked July 2026): Japan discontinued the Transit Visa on 1 July 2026 as part of its visa fee revision — the category was merged into the single/double-entry visa, and applications stopped being accepted on 30 June 2026. Travelers who previously needed a transit visa must now apply for a single-entry Temporary Visitor Visa (¥15,000 under the new fee schedule). Transit visas issued before the change remain valid until they expire or their permitted entries are used.
The information below describes when transiting Japan requires a visa at all.
When do you need a visa for transit? - If you want to leave the airport during layover - If your layover requires overnight stay outside airport - If changing airports (e.g., Narita to Haneda)
When you DON'T need a visa for transit: - Staying within airport transit area - Layover at same airport without leaving - Nationals of visa-exempt countries
Eligibility Requirements
- Confirmed ticket to third country
- Transit through Japan within 72 hours
- Valid visa for destination country (if required)
- Sufficient funds for transit period
Required Documents
Valid Passport
RequiredWith at least 6 months validity
Visa Application Form
RequiredInstructions and access to the specifically required application form for obtaining a transit visa.
Photo
Required4.5cm x 4.5cm, white background
Flight Tickets
RequiredConfirmed tickets showing transit through Japan
Visa for Final Destination
OptionalIf required for your destination country
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Application Steps
Confirm Transit Need
Verify if you need to leave airport during layover
Prepare Documents
Gather passport, tickets, and destination visa
Submit at Embassy
Apply at Japanese embassy/consulate
Collect Visa
Guidelines and requirements for collecting your physical passport and documents after processing is complete.
Visa Fees
| Type | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Entry Visa (replaces the discontinued Transit Visa) | ¥15,000 | Japan stopped issuing transit visas on 1 July 2026 — the category was merged into the single/double-entry visa under the revised fee schedule (checked July 2026) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need transit visa for Japan layover?
How long can I stay with transit visa?
Is Japan transit visa free?
Can I change airports during transit without a visa?
What documents do I need for Japan transit visa?
Generate Your Documents
Create all required documents for your Transit Visa application
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Important
Requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate website before applying.
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Travel essentials
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Official Sources
This information is based on the following official sources. Always verify with these sources before submitting applications.
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